Gaming board and gaming set

ABSTRACT

A gaming apparatus is disclosed. The gaming apparatus includes a main panel principally formed of a first material and possessing at least one opening, and a support member configured to maintain a front surface of the main panel at an oblique angle when the gaming apparatus is set on a horizontal surface. A damping portion of the front surface of the main panel includes a second material configured to substantially reduce a bouncing effect of a projectile when the projectile impacts the second material compared to when the projectile impacts the first material.

This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/546,878, filed on Aug. 17, 2017, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/899,908, filed Feb. 20, 2018, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a gaming board and a gaming set for playing a lawn game involving projectiles aimed at one or more openings in the board.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Some conventional gaming boards are adapted for playing lawn games in which players take turns throwing projectiles at a perforated inclined platform. These games are typically played with bean bags, sand bags, or other projectiles that are not susceptible to bouncing off the board due to their material and structure.

SUMMARY

A gaming apparatus is disclosed. The gaming apparatus includes a main panel principally formed of a first material and possessing at least one opening, and a support member configured to maintain a front surface of the main panel at an oblique angle with respect to a surface upon which the gaming apparatus is set, such as the ground. The gaming apparatus includes a damping portion configured to reduce a bouncing effect of a projectile when the projectile impacts the gaming apparatus. For example, the front surface of the main panel can include a second material thereon which reduces the bouncing effect of a projectile as compared to a bouncing effect of the projectile if the projectile were to impact the first material of the main panel.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Other features and advantages disclosed herein will become more apparent from the following detailed description of embodiments disclosed herein when read in conjunction with the attached drawings, wherein:

FIGS. 1-10 show embodiments of a gaming apparatus as disclosed herein wherein FIG. 1 is a back perspective view of an embodiment of the gaming apparatus, FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of an embodiment of the gaming apparatus, FIG. 3 is a partial top view of an embodiment of the gaming apparatus, FIG. 4 is a partial top view of an embodiment of the gaming apparatus, FIG. 5 is a partial top view of an embodiment of the gaming apparatus, FIG. 6 is a bottom perspective view of an embodiment of the gaming apparatus, FIG. 7 is a top perspective view of an embodiment of the gaming apparatus, FIG. 8 is a back perspective view of an embodiment of the gaming apparatus, FIG. 9 is a bottom perspective view of an embodiment of the gaming apparatus, and FIG. 10 is a bottom perspective view of an embodiment of the gaming apparatus;

FIG. 11 shows an embodiment of a receiving apparatus;

FIG. 12 shows an embodiment of a gaming set;

FIGS. 13A-P show different embodiments of patterns of openings that a gaming apparatus as disclosed herein may include wherein FIG. 13A shows a pattern of openings for an embodiment of a gaming apparatus disclosed herein, FIG. 13B shows a pattern of openings for an embodiment of a gaming apparatus disclosed herein, FIG. 13C shows a pattern of openings for an embodiment of a gaming apparatus disclosed herein, FIG. 13D shows a pattern of openings for an embodiment of a gaming apparatus disclosed herein, FIG. 13E shows a pattern of openings for an embodiment of a gaming apparatus disclosed herein, FIG. 13F shows a pattern of openings for an embodiment of a gaming apparatus disclosed herein, FIG. 13G shows a pattern of openings for an embodiment of a gaming apparatus disclosed herein, FIG. 13H shows a pattern of openings for an embodiment of a gaming apparatus disclosed herein, FIG. 131 shows a pattern of openings for an embodiment of a gaming apparatus disclosed herein, FIG. 13J shows a pattern of openings for an embodiment of a gaming apparatus disclosed herein, FIG. 13K shows a pattern of openings for an embodiment of a gaming apparatus disclosed herein, FIG. 13L shows a pattern of openings for an embodiment of a gaming apparatus disclosed herein, FIG. 13M shows a pattern of openings for an embodiment of a gaming apparatus disclosed herein, FIG. 13N shows a pattern of openings for an embodiment of a gaming apparatus disclosed herein, FIG. 13O shows a pattern of openings for an embodiment of a gaming apparatus disclosed herein, and FIG. 13P shows a pattern of openings for an embodiment of a gaming apparatus disclosed herein;

FIGS. 14A-I show an embodiment of a gaming apparatus according to embodiments disclosed herein wherein FIG. 14A is a top perspective view of an embodiment of the gaming apparatus, FIG. 14B is a back perspective view of an embodiment of the gaming apparatus, FIG. 14C is a bottom elevation view of an embodiment of the gaming apparatus, FIG. 14D is a side view of an embodiment of the gaming apparatus, FIG. 14E is a side view of an embodiment of the gaming apparatus, FIG. 14F is a front view of an embodiment of the gaming apparatus, FIG. 14G is a back view of an embodiment of the gaming apparatus, FIG. 14H is a bottom view of an embodiment of the gaming apparatus, and FIG. 14I is a top perspective view of an embodiment of the gaming apparatus;

FIGS. 15A-B show an embodiment of a gaming apparatus according to embodiments disclosed herein wherein FIG. 15A is a bottom view of an embodiment of the gaming apparatus and FIG. 15B is a top perspective view of an embodiment of the gaming apparatus;

FIGS. 16A-G show an embodiment of a gaming apparatus according to embodiments disclosed herein wherein FIG. 16A is a top perspective view of an embodiment of the gaming apparatus, FIG. 16B is a view of an embodiment of the gaming apparatus in a folded configuration, FIG. 16C is a side perspective view of an embodiment of the gaming apparatus erect for gameplay, FIG. 16D is a bottom perspective view of an embodiment of the gaming apparatus, FIG. 16E is a side perspective view of an embodiment of the gaming apparatus erect for gameplay, FIG. 16F is a front view of an embodiment of the gaming apparatus erect for gameplay, and FIG. 16G is a back view of an embodiment of the gaming apparatus;

FIGS. 17A-F show an embodiment of a gaming apparatus according to embodiments disclosed herein wherein FIG. 17A is a back perspective view of an embodiment of the gaming apparatus, FIG. 17B is a bottom perspective view of an embodiment of the gaming apparatus, FIG. 17C is a top view of an embodiment of the gaming apparatus, FIG. 17D is a side view of an embodiment of the gaming apparatus, FIG. 17E is a bottom perspective view of an embodiment of the gaming apparatus, and FIG. 17F is a bottom perspective view of an embodiment of the gaming apparatus; and

FIG. 18 shows an embodiment of a gaming set kit.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIGS. 1-10 show illustrative embodiments of a gaming apparatus 100. The gaming apparatus 100 can include a main panel 110 and a support member 130 configured to maintain a front surface 112 of the main panel 110 at an oblique angle to a surface upon which the gaming apparatus 100 is set such as a horizontal surface H shown in FIG. 1. The main panel 110 includes at least one opening 120. The main panel 110 can be principally formed of a first material. The gaming apparatus includes a damping portion 114 that is configured to reduce the bouncing effect of a projectile which impacts the main panel 110. For example, the gaming apparatus 100 can include a damping portion 114 on the front surface 112 of the main panel 110. The damping portion 114 can be formed of a second material that is operable to substantially reduce a bouncing effect of a projectile when the projectile impacts the second material compared to if the projectile were to impact the first material of the main panel 110. In an embodiment, the damping portion 114 can be located below the main panel 110. In an embodiment, the game apparatus 100 may not include a damping portion 114.

In an embodiment, the main panel 110 can be rectangular. In an embodiment, the rectangular main panel 110 measures about 48 inches by about 24 inches, with a thickness of about 2 inches. In other illustrative embodiments, the main panel 110 can be any other shape, including, but not limited to, any other polygonal, circular, or oval shape. A polygonal main panel 110 can have sharp or rounded corners. In an illustrative embodiment, the first material is wood or a wood composite. In other embodiments, the first material can include any suitable material, including, but not limited to, any combination of wood, metal, or plastic. The support member 130 can be made of the same or a different material as the main panel 110. In illustrative embodiments, the support member 130 includes one leg or several legs. The leg or legs can be removable or permanently attached to the main panel 110 or other portion of the gaming apparatus 100. If the support member 130 includes multiple legs, the legs can be independently movable or alternatively or coupled together. In an embodiment, the support member 130 can be a T-shaped leg.

In embodiments, the oblique angle ranges between about 10 degrees to about 60 degrees, preferably between about 15 degrees and about 45 degrees. In an embodiment, the position of the support member 130 relative to the main panel 110 is adjustable to vary the oblique angle. Adjusting the oblique angle can be achieved using, for example, notches that are operationally coupled to a back surface 116 of the main panel 110 or formed in the main panel 110, which engages a member that is operationally coupled to the support member 130.

In an embodiment, the one or more openings 120 are circular and sized to accommodate a projectile the size of about a standard golf ball. In other embodiments, the one or more openings 120 can be any other shape, including, but not limited to, triangular, rectangular, star-shaped, hexagonal, octagonal, U-shaped, etc. In an embodiment, the gaming apparatus 100 includes more than one opening wherein the openings 120 can each be the same shape or include a combination of different shapes. In an embodiment, the one or more openings 120 can be sized to accommodate any other desired projectile. To accommodate a standard golf ball or projectile having the same dimensions as a standard golf ball, the diameter of the one or more openings 120 are about equal to the diameter of a golf hole. In an embodiment, the diameter of the one or more openings 120 are each about 4.25 inches.

In an illustrative embodiment, the support member 130 is hinged to the main panel 110 so that the gaming apparatus 100 is configurable in: a folded configuration (FIG. 2) in which the support member 130 is directed along the back surface 116 of the main panel 110, and an extended configuration (FIG. 1) in which the support member 130 extends away from the main panel 110 to maintain the front surface 112 of the main panel at the oblique angle when the gaming apparatus 100 is set on the ground or a horizontal surface H. In illustrative embodiments, the support member 130 can be formed integrally with the main panel 110, can be rotatably coupled thereto by a hinge mechanism 190, or can be separable from the main panel 110 and attachable to the main panel 110 to accommodate each configuration.

In an illustrative embodiment, the second material includes fabric, grass, turf and/or a grass-like material, such as, but not limited to, simulated grass formed by artificial turf yarn. In an illustrative embodiment, one purpose of the second material is to prevent or reduce bounce when a golf ball or golf ball like projectile impacts or rolls along the main panel 110 at the damping portion 114.

In illustrative embodiments, the damping portion 114 spans part of the front surface 112 or the entirety of the front surface 112.

In an embodiment, the at least one opening 120 is a blind recess.

In an embodiment, the at least one opening 120 is a through hole.

In embodiments, the opening 120 is configured to receive a drinking cup 200 (shown in FIG. 12).

In an embodiment, at least one guiding member or bumper 118 is located adjacent one or more respective sides of the opening(s) 120 and extend along the oblique angle of the front surface 112, or across the oblique angle of the front surface 112, of the main panel 110. In an embodiment, one purpose of the guiding member 118 is to reduce the risk of a golf ball rolling off a side of the main panel 110 or to bump the golf ball towards the one or more openings 120 if impacted by the golf ball. Preferably, the gaming board 100 includes two guiding members 118, located on each side of the main panel 110. In an embodiment, the main panel can include a guiding member 118 at a lower end thereof which operates as a ball catch for missed balls, or alternatively, a barrier over which a projectile must be chipped so that shots which are not properly chipped are obstructed from entering a respective opening 120.

In an embodiment, the gaming apparatus includes a plurality of openings 120 arranged in pyramidal (triangle) pattern. In other embodiments, openings 120 can be arranged in any other suitable patterns. For example, as shown in FIGS. 13A-P, the openings 120 can be arranged in a diamond shaped pattern, a reverse pyramidal (triangle) pattern, a circular pattern, a zig-zag pattern, a straight line extending perpendicular or parallel to the oblique angle of the main panel 110, a T-shape pattern (upper-case or lower-case), a square or rectangular-shaped pattern, a pentagon-shaped pattern, a trapezoidal-shaped pattern, a staggered or non-staggered pattern of multiple straight lines, a cross-hair shaped pattern or the like. The gaming apparatus 100 can include, for example, 1 opening, 2 openings, 3 openings, 4 openings, 5 openings, 6 openings, 7 openings, 8 openings, 9 openings, 10 openings, 11 openings, 12 openings or 13 or more openings. In an embodiment, each opening can be configured to receive a cup, or cup-like insert.

In an embodiment, the main panel 110 includes an upper impact region 122 located above the pattern of openings 120, and a lower impact region 124 located below the pattern of openings 120. The upper and lower impact regions 122, 124 can each span an entirety of a width of the main panel 110 and are free of opening(s) 120. In an embodiment, the surface of the upper and/or lower impact regions 122, 124 is/are different from that of the damping portion 114. In embodiments (as in FIG. 12), the surface of the upper and/or lower impact region(s) 122, 124 is/are configured to receive a decorative sticker or interchangeable banner 140. For example, the decorative sticker or interchangeable banner 140 can be representative of an individual's favorite sports team or any alternative design. In an embodiment, a logo or insignia can be painted or printed on the upper and/or lower impact region(s) 122, 124. In an embodiment, the logo or insignia can span across the region of the gaming apparatus 100 that includes the one or more openings 120. In embodiments, the surface of the upper and/or lower impact region(s) 122, 124 include(s) peg holes 151 or pegs 150 configured to receive and hold interchangeable banners.

In an embodiment, the openings 120 can be arranged in a pyramidal pattern or an inverted pyramidal pattern such that a base portion of the pyramidal pattern is closer to the upper impact region 122 than to the lower impact region 124, and a tip portion of the pyramidal pattern is closer to the lower impact region 124 than to the upper impact region 122. In an embodiment, the main panel 110 includes six openings 120 or ten openings 120 arranged in a pyramidal pattern or an inverted pyramidal pattern.

FIG. 11 shows an illustrative embodiment of a receiving apparatus 300 configured to be fitted in or over a respective opening 120 and configured to receive a projectile before or after the projectile travels through the respective opening 120 through the front surface 112 of the main panel 110. In an illustrative embodiment, one purpose of the receiving apparatus 300 is to be fitted over or inside a cup 200 that is coupled to or held by the opening 120, and to receive a projectile such as, but not limited to, a golf ball, and to prevent this projectile from reaching the bottom of the cup 200 which may hold fluid during game play. This can prevent or reduce the risk of splashing of fluid contained inside the cup 200. In an embodiment, the golf ball is a plastic golf ball such as a practice ball, or golf ball-like projectile.

In an embodiment, the receiving apparatus 300 includes a perforated container comprising a main body 310 at least one opening 320. In an illustrative embodiment, one purpose of the opening 320 is to facilitate the fitting of the receiving apparatus 300 inside a cup 200, and the removal of the receiving apparatus 300 from the cup 200, by letting air travel through the opening 320 during fitting and removal operations. For cleanliness, the opening(s) 320 is/are preferably located on a side surface of the main body 310, and not at a bottom surface of the main body 310. This is to prevent contamination of dirt from the projectile into the cup 200. In other illustrative embodiments, an opening 320 is located at the bottom surface of the main body 310.

In an illustrative embodiment, the receiving apparatus 300 includes a net (not shown) operable to catch a projectile that travels through a respective opening 120.

FIG. 12 shows an illustrative embodiment of a gaming set including a gaming apparatus 100, and a packaging (not shown). In an illustrative embodiment, the packaging includes a plastic wrap covering the entirety or a portion of the components of the gaming set. In another illustrative embodiment, the packaging includes cardboard or other suitable packaging material for coupling the various components of the gaming set. In an embodiment, the gaming set includes two gaming apparatus 100. In an embodiment, the gaming set further includes two golf clubs and optionally golf balls or golf ball-like projectiles which are intended to be chipped through the one or more openings 120.

In an illustrative embodiment, the gaming set includes at least one drinking cup 200. In an illustrative embodiment, a gaming set includes as many drinking cups 200 as openings 120.

In an illustrative embodiment, the gaming set includes at least one receiving apparatus 300. In an illustrative embodiment, a gaming set includes as many receiving apparatuses 300 as openings 120.

In an illustrative embodiment, the gaming set includes a mat 400 possessing a grass, fabric, turf-like, and/or grass-like surface. In an illustrative embodiment, one purpose of the mat 400 is to serve as a pitching surface for pitching a golf ball 500 using a golf club 600, in the direction of an opening 120 in the gaming board 100. In an illustrative embodiment, a bottom surface of the mat 400 includes an anti-slipping material, such as, but not limited to, rubber. This is to reduce the risk of slippage of the mat 400 during pitching. In a further embodiment, the mat 400 can be integral with the gaming apparatus 100. In an embodiment, the mat 400 can include a built in tee 440 so that a game player may tee their golf ball before striking the ball.

In an illustrative embodiment, the gaming set includes a ball 500. In an illustrative embodiment, the ball 500 is a standard golf ball or resembles a golf ball, but is made of a softer and/or lighter material.

In an embodiment, the gaming set includes one or more golf clubs 600.

In illustrative embodiments, gaming apparatus 100 or gaming sets are configured to facilitate the playing of a lawn game with rules similar to the popular game “beer pong,” played with golf balls pitched using golf clubs rather than ping pong balls. However, in an embodiment, ping pong balls may be used as the projectile for the game. For example, a game can be played according to the following method. At the start of a game, cups 200 are filled with a beverage and are arranged in a pyramidal formation in corresponding openings 120 in two respective gaming apparatus or boards 100. Receiving apparatuses 300 are placed over or into each cup 200. Players take turns launching (chipping) projectiles (e.g., pitching golf balls 500 from a mat 400 using golf clubs 600) in the direction of one of the cups 200 on the opposing gaming board 100. If a projectile struck by a player successfully lands in one of the receiving apparatus 300 corresponding to a cup 200, the opposing player removes the cup 200 and/or receiving apparatus 300 combination from the gaming apparatus 100. A player wins by eliminating all the cups 200 of the opposing player. In an embodiment, the game is a team game comprising teams of two or more people who alternate taking turns at chipping the golf balls or golf ball-like projectiles towards the cups 200. In an embodiment, the game can be played without the cups and/or receiving apparatus wherein the object of the game is to chip a golf ball or golf ball-like projectile through the respective openings 120.

In illustrative embodiments, gaming boards 100 or gaming sets are configured to facilitate the playing of a similar lawn game. For example, instead of filling the cups 200 with fluid, the cups 200 can be filled with cash, objects of value, or “dare” or “challenge” instructions. Receiving apparatuses 300 are not needed in this case. In an embodiment, the gaming set can include coasters or circular disks that are used to cover the openings 120. For example, game play can include covering a respective opening 120 after a player has successfully landed a golf ball or golf-ball like projectile through the opening.

In an embodiment, the gaming apparatus 100 can include a first pattern of openings 120 in the main panel 110 and the damping portion 114 can have a second pattern of openings wherein the first pattern of openings 120 in the main panel include more openings than the second pattern of openings in the damping portion 114. The damping portion 114 can be placed on the main panel 110 such that the damping portion 114 covers or obstructs certain openings in the first pattern of openings 120 while the second pattern of openings each align with a respective opening of the first pattern of openings 120 such that only openings of the first pattern of openings 120 corresponding to the second pattern of openings in the damping portion 114 remain open (see e.g. FIGS. 15A and 15B). In this manner, interchangeable damping portions 114 having different patterns of openings can be placed over the main panel 110 such that the pattern of openings 120 of the gaming apparatus 100 can be changed. For example, as shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B, the gaming set could include a gaming apparatus 100 having a main panel 110 having a first pattern of openings 120 a, and further include a first damping portion 114 having a second pattern of openings 120 b which when placed on the main panel 110 result in a gaming apparatus 100 with a pyramidal pattern of openings 120 (see e.g., FIG. 14A), and a second damping portion 114 having a different second pattern of openings 120 b than the first damping portion, which when placed on the main panel 110 result in a gaming apparatus 100 with an inverse pyramidal pattern of openings 120 (see e.g., FIG. 13D). Additional damping portions 114 can be configured such that multiple, different, patterns of openings 120 b can be achieved with a single main panel of the gaming apparatus 100 to alter game play through difference configurations of the pattern of openings 120.

FIGS. 14A-I show a gaming apparatus 100 according to embodiments disclosed herein. The gaming apparatus 100 can include a main panel 110 and a support member 130 configured to maintain a front surface 112 of the main panel 110 at an oblique angle to a surface upon which the gaming apparatus 100 is erected. The main panel 110 includes at least one opening 120. The main panel 110 can be principally formed of a first material. The gaming apparatus can include a damping portion 114, which overlays the main panel 110 such that an outer surface of the damping portion 114 forms a portion of the front surface of the main panel 110. In an embodiment, the damping portion 114 is operable to absorb the impact and/or reduce a bouncing effect of a projectile, such as a traditional golf ball or practice golf ball, when the projectile contacts a portion of the main panel 110 that is covered with the damping portion 114. The damping portion 114 can be formed of a second material that is operable to reduce a bouncing effect of a projectile when the projectile impacts the second material compared to if the projectile were to impact the first material of the main panel 110 alone. In an embodiment, the damping portion 114 can be located below the main panel 110.

In an embodiment according to FIGS. 14A-I, the first material forming the main panel 110 includes wood or a wood composite. In other embodiments, the first material can include any suitable material, including, but not limited to, any combination of wood, metal, or plastic. The support member 130 can be made of the same or a different material as the main panel 110. In an embodiment, the second material forming the damping portion 114 includes fabric, grass, turf and/or a grass-like material, such as, but not limited to, simulated grass formed by artificial turf yarn. In an illustrative embodiment, one purpose of the second material is to prevent or reduce bounce when a golf ball or golf ball like projectile impacts or rolls along a portion of the main panel 110 that includes the damping portion 114. In an embodiment, the damping portion 114 overlays a portion of the main panel 110 and forms a portion of the front surface 112, or alternatively the damping portion 114 overlays the main panel 110 such that the damping portion 114 forms the entirety of the front surface 112.

In an embodiment, the support member 130 can be a panel that includes one or more carve outs 131, which are configured to break up, and reduce, a total surface area of the support member 130 that contacts the ground or surface upon which the gaming apparatus 100 is erected. In this embodiment, the gaming apparatus 100 including the support member 130 with the carve out 131 may be erected on an uneven surface and remain more stable than a support member 130 having a continuous surface that is configured to contact the ground. In an embodiment, the carve out 131 is a generally semi-circular carve out which is arranged in the support member 130 such that the support member has two ground contact surfaces 132, which may be set upon the ground when the gaming apparatus 100 is erect. In an alternative embodiment, the support member 130 can include multiple legs.

In an embodiment according to FIGS. 14A-I, the support member 130 is hinged to the main panel 110 by a hinge mechanism 190 such that the gaming apparatus 100 is configurable in: a folded configuration in which the support member 130 faces a back surface 116 of the main panel 110, and an extended configuration in which the support member 130 extends away from the main panel 110 to maintain the front surface 112 of the main panel at the oblique angle when the gaming apparatus 100 erect. In an embodiment, the position of the support member 130 relative to the main panel 110 is adjustable along the hinge mechanism 190 such that the oblique angle of the front surface 112 of the main panel 100 may be varied with respect to a surface upon which the gaming apparatus 100 is erected.

In an embodiment according to FIGS. 14A-I, the one or more openings 120 are circular and sized to accommodate a projectile the size of about a standard golf ball. In other embodiments, the one or more openings 120 can be any other shape, including, but not limited to, triangular, rectangular, star-shaped, hexagonal, octagonal, U-shaped, etc. The openings 120 may be arranged in a pattern as disclosed herein (see e.g., FIGS. 13A-P). In an embodiment, the gaming apparatus 100 includes more than one opening wherein the openings 120 can each be the same shape or include a combination of different shapes. In an embodiment, the one or more openings 120 can be sized to accommodate any other desired projectile. To accommodate a standard golf ball or projectile having the same dimensions as a standard golf ball, the diameter of the one or more openings 120 are about equal to the diameter of a golf hole. In an embodiment, the diameter of the one or more openings 120 are each about 4.25 inches. In an embodiment, the openings 120 are blind recesses. In an alternative embodiment, the openings 120 may be through holes. In this embodiment, the openings 120 may be configured to receive respective drinking cups 200 (shown in FIG. 12).

In an embodiment according to FIGS. 14A-I, two guiding members or bumpers 118 are located on opposite sides of the main panel 110, adjacent the opening(s) 120, and extend along the oblique angle of the front surface 112 formed by the damping portion 114 and/or exposed main panel 110. Additionally one or more guiding members or bumpers 118 can extend across the oblique angle of the front surface 112, above or below the openings 120. In an embodiment, one purpose of the guiding member 118 is to reduce the risk of a golf ball rolling off a side of the main panel 110 or to bump the golf ball towards the one or more openings 120 if impacted by the golf ball.

In an embodiment according to FIGS. 14A-I, the main panel 110 includes an upper impact region 122 located above the pattern of openings 120, and a lower impact region 124 located below the pattern of openings 120. The upper and lower impact regions 122, 124 can each span an entirety of a width of the main panel 110 and are free of opening(s) 120. In an embodiment, the surface of the upper and/or lower impact regions 122, 124 is/are different from that of the damping portion 114. In an embodiment, the upper and lower impact regions 122, 124 are formed from the main panel 110. In embodiments (as in FIG. 12), the surface of the upper and/or lower impact region(s) 122, 124 is/are configured to receive a decorative sticker or interchangeable banner 140. For example, the upper and/or lower impact regions 122, 124 can include peg holes 151 that are configured to receive pegs 150 for attaching a banner, or alternatively a banner 140 that is configured to be received in the peg holes 151. In an embodiment, the gaming apparatus can include pegs 150 that are configured to receive a banner 140. In an embodiment, the upper and/or lower impact regions 122, 124 include a plurality of pegs 150 and/or peg holes 151 so that banners 140 of different sizes can be attached to the gaming apparatus 100. In an embodiment, the upper impact region 124 can include four peg holes wherein a first pair of peg holes 151 are adjacent a first side of the upper impact region 124 and a second pair of peg holes 151 are adjacent a second side of the upper impact region 124. Each pair of the four peg holes 151 can be spaced about 5 mm apart and the four peg holes can form a substantially straight line across the upper impact region 124. Likewise, a back surface of the support member 130 can include peg holes configured to attach to a banner 140. In an embodiment, the peg holes 151 are configured to receive golf tees 150 a such that a banner may be affixed to the gaming apparatus 100 with the golf tees.

FIGS. 16A-G show a gaming apparatus 100 according to embodiments disclosed herein. The gaming apparatus 100 can include a main panel 110 and a support member 130 configured to maintain a front surface 112 of the main panel 110 at an oblique or parallel angle to a surface upon which the gaming apparatus 100 is erected. The main panel 110 includes at least one opening 120. The main panel 110 can be principally formed of a first material. The gaming apparatus can include a damping portion 114, which overlays the main panel 110 such that an outer surface of the damping portion 114 forms a portion of the front surface of the main panel 110. In an embodiment, the damping portion 114 is operable to absorb the impact and/or reduce a bouncing effect of a projectile, such as a traditional golf ball or practice golf ball, when the projectile contacts a portion of the main panel 110 that is covered with the damping portion 114. The damping portion 114 can be formed of a second material that is operable to reduce a bouncing effect of a projectile when the projectile impacts the second material compared to if the projectile were to impact the first material of the main panel 110 alone. In an embodiment, the damping portion 114 can be located below the main panel 110.

In an embodiment according to FIGS. 16A-F, the first material forming the main panel 110 includes wood or a wood composite. In other embodiments, the first material can include any suitable material, including, but not limited to, any combination of wood, metal, or plastic. The support member 130 can be made of the same or a different material as the main panel 110. In an embodiment, the second material forming the damping portion 114 includes fabric, grass, turf and/or a grass-like material, such as, but not limited to, simulated grass formed by artificial turf yarn. In an illustrative embodiment, one purpose of the second material is to prevent or reduce bounce when a golf ball or golf ball like projectile impacts or rolls along a portion of the main panel 110 that includes the damping portion 114. In an embodiment, the damping portion 114 overlays a portion of the main panel 110 and forms a portion of the front surface 112, or alternatively the damping portion 114 overlays the main panel 110 such that the damping portion 114 forms the entirety of the front surface 112.

In an embodiment, the support member 130 can be a panel that includes one or more carve outs 131, which are configured to break up, and reduce, a total surface area of the support member 130 that contacts the ground or surface upon which the gaming apparatus 100 is erected. In this embodiment, the gaming apparatus 100 including the support member 130 with the carve out 131 may be erected on an uneven surface and remain more stable than a support member 130 having a continuous surface that is configured to contact the ground. In an embodiment, the carve out 131 is a generally semi-circular carve out which is arranged in the support member 130 such that the support member has two ground contact surfaces 132, which may be set upon the ground when the gaming apparatus 100 is erect. In an alternative embodiment, the support member 130 can include multiple legs.

In an embodiment according to FIGS. 16A-G, the main panel 110 can be operatively coupled to a mat panel 400 that can include a mat damping portion 414. In an embodiment, the mat panel 400 can include a lower impact region 124 and mat bumpers 418. In an embodiment, the mat panel 400 can be hinged to the main panel 110 by a hinge mechanism 490 and the support member 130 can be hinged to the main panel 110 by a hinge mechanism 190 such that the gaming apparatus 100 is configurable in different positions. For example, the position of the support member 130 relative to the main panel 110 is adjustable along the hinge mechanism 190 and the position of the mat panel 400 relative to the main panel 110 is adjustable along the hinge mechanism 490 such that an angle of the front surface 112 of the main panel 100 may be varied with respect to a surface upon which the gaming apparatus 100 or the gaming apparatus can be folded into a storage position or configuration. In an embodiment, the gaming apparatus 100 can be set in a folded configuration (see e.g., FIG. 16B) for ease of storage or transfer in which a locking mechanism 183 serves to hold the mat panel 400 and/or support member 130 in a fixed position. As shown in FIG. 16B, the support member 130 is configured to be secured against a back surface 116 of the main panel 110 and the mat panel 400 is configured to be secured against the back surface 116 of the main panel 110. In this embodiment, the support member 130 can include a handle carve out 180 and the mat panel 400 can include a handle carve out 181 such that a handle 182 (e.g., strap) is operable for an individual to carry the gaming apparatus 100. The handle 182 can be received by the respective handle carve outs 180, 181 such that it serves as the locking mechanism 183.

In an embodiment according to FIGS. 16A-G, the gaming apparatus 100 can be set in an extended configuration in which the support member 130 extends downwardly away from the main panel 110 at an angle and the mat panel 400 extends outwardly away from the main panel 110 at an angle or along a surface in which the gaming apparatus 100 is set so as to maintain the front surface 112 of the main panel 110 at an oblique angle to a surface upon which it is set when the gaming apparatus 100 erect for gameplay (see e.g., FIG. 16G). In an embodiment, the gaming apparatus 100 can be set in a semi-extended configuration in which the support member 130 extends away from the main panel 110 at a downward angle and the mat panel 400 extends under the main panel 110 along a surface in which the gaming apparatus 100 is set to maintain the front surface 112 of the main panel 110 at the oblique angle when the gaming apparatus 100 erect for gameplay while hiding the mat panel 400 under the main panel 110 (see e.g., FIG. 16C). In an embodiment, the gaming apparatus 100 can be set in a raised configuration in which the support member 130 extends downwardly away from the main panel 110 at an angle and the mat panel 400 extends downwardly away from the main panel 110 at an angle such that the entire front surface 112 of the main panel 110 is raised off of a surface on which the gaming apparatus is set and the main panel 110 can be parallel to the surface on which the gaming apparatus 100 is erect or maintained at an oblique angle to the surface upon which it is set when the gaming apparatus 100 erect for gameplay (see e.g., FIG. 16E).

In an embodiment according to FIGS. 16A-G, the one or more openings 120 are circular and sized to accommodate a projectile the size of about a standard golf ball. In other embodiments, the one or more openings 120 can be any other shape, including, but not limited to, triangular, rectangular, star-shaped, hexagonal, octagonal, U-shaped, etc. The openings 120 may be arranged in a pattern as disclosed herein (see e.g., FIGS. 13A-P). In an embodiment, the gaming apparatus 100 includes more than one opening wherein the openings 120 can each be the same shape or include a combination of different shapes. In an embodiment, the one or more openings 120 can be sized to accommodate any other desired projectile. To accommodate a standard golf ball or projectile having the same dimensions as a standard golf ball, the diameter of the one or more openings 120 are about equal to the diameter of a golf hole. In an embodiment, the diameter of the one or more openings 120 are each about 4.25 inches. In an embodiment, the openings 120 are blind recesses. In an alternative embodiment, the openings 120 may be through holes. In this embodiment, the openings 120 may be configured to receive respective drinking cups 200 (shown in FIG. 12).

In an embodiment according to FIGS. 16A-G, two guiding members or bumpers 118 are located on opposite sides of the main panel 110, adjacent the opening(s) 120, and extend along the oblique angle of the front surface 112 formed by the damping portion 114 and/or exposed main panel 110 while two guiding members or bumpers 418 are located on opposite sides of the mat panel 400, and extend along opposite sides of the mat damping portion 414. Additionally one or more guiding members or bumpers 118 can extend across the oblique angle of the front surface 112, above or below the openings 120. In an embodiment, one purpose of the guiding members 118, 418 is to reduce the risk of a golf ball rolling off a side of the main panel 110 or to bump the golf ball towards the one or more openings 120 if impacted by the golf ball. In an embodiment, the mat damping portion 414 can be formed of a same or different material as the damping portion 114.

In an embodiment according to FIGS. 16A-G, the main panel 110 includes an upper impact region 122 located above the pattern of openings 120, and the mat panel includes a lower impact region 124 located below the pattern of openings 120. The upper and lower impact regions 122, 124 can each span an entirety of a width of the main panel 110 and mat panel 400 respectively and are free of opening(s) 120. In an embodiment, the surface of the upper and/or lower impact regions 122, 124 is/are different from that of the damping portion 114 and mat damping portion 414. In an embodiment, the upper impact region 122 is formed from the main panel 110. In embodiments (as in FIG. 12), the surface of the upper and/or lower impact region(s) 122, 124 is/are configured to receive a decorative sticker or interchangeable banner 140. For example, the upper and/or lower impact regions 122, 124 can include peg holes 151 that are configured to receive pegs 150 for attaching a banner, or alternatively a banner 140 that is configured to be received in the peg holes 151. In an embodiment, the gaming apparatus 100 can include pegs 150 that are configured to receive a banner 140. In an embodiment, the upper and/or lower impact regions 122, 124 include a plurality of pegs 150 and/or peg holes 151 so that banners 140 of different sizes can be attached to the gaming apparatus 100. In an embodiment, the upper impact region 124 can include four peg holes wherein a first pair of peg holes 151 are adjacent a first side of the upper impact region 124 and a second pair of peg holes 151 are adjacent a second side of the upper impact region 124. Each pair of the four peg holes 151 can be spaced about 5 mm apart and the four peg holes can form a substantially straight line across the upper impact region 124. Likewise, a back surface of the support member 130 can include peg holes configured to attach to a banner 140. In an embodiment, the peg holes 151 are configured to receive golf tees 150 a such that a banner may be affixed to the gaming apparatus 100 with the golf tees.

FIGS. 17A-F show a gaming apparatus 700 according to embodiments disclosed herein wherein the gaming apparatus 700 is a soft top gaming apparatus. In an embodiment, the gaming apparatus 700 is configured to be constructed and deconstructed for ease of storage and transfer, wherein FIGS. 17A-F show the gaming apparatus 700 in various stages of construction and erection and FIG. 18 shows a kit 780 and its components for two soft top gaming apparatus 700. According to FIGS. 17A-F, the soft top gaming apparatus 700 can include a panel of flexible material 710 that can be supported by a rigid perimeter 726. In an embodiment, the rigid perimeter 726 is rectangular, and in other embodiments, the rigid perimeter may be any desired geometric shape including for example a substantially triangular, square, pentangular, or circular shape. The panel of flexible material 710 includes a front (top) surface 712, a back (bottom) surface 716, and at least one opening 720 which may optionally include a reinforced opening lip 720 a. In an embodiment, the at least one opening 720 can be configured to receive a drinking cup 200 or receiving apparatus 300 (see e.g., FIG. 11). In an embodiment, the at least one opening 720 is a pattern of openings such as those shown in FIGS. 13A-P. In an embodiment, the panel of flexible material 710 can include a logo 740.

In an embodiment according to FIGS. 17A-F, the gaming apparatus 700 can include a support member 725 such that it can be set at an angle oblique to a surface upon which the gaming apparatus 700 is set. The support member 725 can include a leg 730 which is coupled to the rigid perimeter 726. In an embodiment, the leg 730 can include two or more leg extensions 766 that extends downwardly from the rigid perimeter 726 and a leg crossbar 767 that extends between distal ends of two or more leg extensions 766. In an embodiment, the leg crossbar 767 is attached to the distal ends of the respective leg extension 766 with respective corner attachment mechanisms 762. In an embodiment, the corner attachment mechanisms 762 can be an elbow fitting 764. In alternative embodiments, the corner attachment mechanisms 762 can include an elbow fitting 764 and additional components such as tee fittings 763, couplings 765 or the like. The respective components can be configured to slidably insert into one another or can be attached via connections such as screw thread connections, or notched end portions having retractable buttons configured to be received in respective openings of a mating component.

In an embodiment according to FIGS. 17A-F, the panel of flexible material can include sleeves 727 and/or flaps 728 which are configured to couple the panel of flexible material 710 to the rigid perimeter 726. In an embodiment, the rigid perimeter 726 includes two longitudinal perimeter rails 760 extending along the oblique angle of the gaming apparatus 700 when erect, and two transverse perimeter rails 761, which extend generally perpendicular to the respective longitudinal perimeter rails 760. In an embodiment, corner attachment mechanisms 762 couple the respective ends of the longitudinal perimeter rails 760 to the respective ends of the transverse perimeter rails 761. In an embodiment, the corner attachment mechanisms 762 can include elbow fittings 764 such that the longitudinal perimeter rails 760 are directly coupled to a first transverse perimeter rail 761 at lower ends thereof. In an embodiment, the corner attachment mechanisms 762 can include respective tee fittings 763 that are directly coupled to respective upper ends of the longitudinal perimeter rails 760 as well as a second transverse perimeter rail 761. In an embodiment, couplings 765 can directly couple the respective tee fittings 763 to respective elbow fittings 764 that are configured to directly couple to the second transverse perimeter rail 761 to form the rigid perimeter 726. In an embodiment, the respective tee fittings 763 are configured to couple the rigid perimeter 726 of the gaming apparatus 700 to the respective leg extensions 766 of the leg 730.

In an embodiment according to FIGS. 17A-F, the panel of flexible material can include sleeves 727 having sleeve openings 727 a through which the longitudinal perimeter members 760 may be received. In an embodiment, the panel of flexible material 710 can include flaps 728 that are operable to enclose and couple the transverse perimeter rails 761 to the panel of flexible material 710. The flaps 728 can be adjustable such that the tension of the panel of flexible material 710 with respect to the rigid perimeter 726 can be adjustable controlled for gameplay. In an embodiment, the flaps 728 include a closure mechanism such as a hook and loop fastener (i.e. Velcro) wherein, for example, the flaps 728 have a strip of hook material 728 b that is configured to couple a first end of the flaps 728 to a strip of loop material 728 c at respective second end of the flaps 728 such that the transverse perimeter rails 761 extend through flap openings 728 a. In alternative embodiments the flap closure mechanisms can include buttons, rivets, clips, zippers, buckles, ties, snaps, hooks, adhesives, sewing, or heat sealing means. In further embodiments, the transverse perimeter rails 761 can be received in sleeves of the panel of flexible material 710 and/or the longitudinal perimeter rails 760 can be coupled to the panel of flexible material via flaps so as to secure the panel of flexible material 710 to the rigid perimeter 726.

In an embodiment according to FIGS. 17A-F, the rigid perimeter 726 and support member 725 and components thereof are substantially rigid and can be formed of a plastic, wood, or metal material, such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), steel, or aluminum. Alternate materials of construction may include one or more of the following: a polymeric material such as a polymeric composite, steel, aluminum, titanium, and/or other metals, as well as various alloys and composites thereof, glass-hardened polymers, polymer or fiber reinforced metals, carbon fiber or glass fiber composites, continuous fibers in combination with thermoset and thermoplastic resins, chopped glass or carbon fibers used for injection molding compounds, laminate glass or carbon fiber, epoxy laminates, woven glass fiber laminates, impregnate fibers, polyester resins, epoxy resins, phenolic resins, polyimide resins, cyanate resins, high-strength plastics, nylon, glass, or polymer fiber reinforced plastics, thermoform and/or thermoset materials, and/or various combinations of the foregoing.

In an embodiment according to FIGS. 17A-F, the panel of flexible material 710 is configured to have a predetermined give or flexibility. This allows the panel of flexible material 710 to be placed under a desired tension and deformed slightly. Some materials will deform more than others, the greater the deformation, the more tension required to pull the material taut. By forming the panel of flexible material 710 out of a slightly flexible material such as PVC, the material can be tensioned to a desired tautness. The panel of flexible material 710 can be formed of fabric, plastic, vinyl or canvas material, such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and is configured to receive print ink such that a logo 740 may be included thereon, or alternatively a protective coating thereover. In further embodiments, the panel of flexible material 710 can be formed of vinyl, rubber, cotton, textile, polyester, polyester nylon, recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET), leather, spandex, polyurethane foam, nylon, denier and denier variations, canvas and canvas variations, elastic, vinyl coated polyester, silicon coated materials, elastomer composite, mesh, PVC backed polyester, neoprene fabric and neoprene fabric variations.

In an embodiment according to FIGS. 17A-F, the support member 725 can be secured to the ground with anchors, or stakes, that extend into the ground. The type of stakes used can vary according to the particular type of underlying support surface, e.g. strength, shape, length, diameter, sharpness, or the like. For example, the stakes can comprise concrete anchors when assembled on a concrete support surface, or elongate stakes when assembled on a non-concrete support surface.

In an embodiment according to FIG. 18, the gaming apparatus is included in a kit 780 that includes two panels of flexible material 710, four longitudinal perimeter rails 760, four transverse perimeter rails 761, four tee fittings 763, 12 elbow fittings 764, four couplings 765, four leg extensions 766, two leg crossbars 767, two mats 401, a carrying case 800, and optionally golf balls or playing balls such as golf ball sized wiffle balls.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the disclosure herein can be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics thereof. The presently disclosed embodiments are therefore considered in all respects to be exemplary and not restricted. The scope of the invention is indicated by the appended claims rather than the foregoing description and all changes that come within the meaning and range and equivalence thereof are intended to be embraced therein. 

1. A soft top gaming apparatus comprising: a panel of flexible material possessing at least one opening therein; a rigid perimeter configured to support the panel of flexible material, and a support member configured to maintain a front surface of the main panel at an oblique angle when the gaming apparatus is set on a horizontal surface.
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 15. The gaming apparatus of claim 1, wherein: a. the at least one opening includes a pattern of openings; b. the at least one opening includes a reinforced opening lip; c. the panel of flexible material includes a logo thereon; d. the at least one opening is a blind recess; e. the at least one opening is a through hole; f. the at least one opening includes a pattern of openings arranged in a pyramidal pattern; and g. the rigid perimeter has a rectangular, triangular, square, pentangular, or circular shape.
 16. The gaming apparatus of claim 1, wherein the support member includes a leg that is coupled to the rigid perimeter.
 17. The gaming apparatus of claim 16, wherein the leg includes two leg extensions that extend downwardly from the rigid perimeter and a leg crossbar that extends between distal ends of the respective leg extensions.
 18. The gaming apparatus of claim 17, wherein corner attachment mechanisms attach respective distal ends of the leg extensions to the leg crossbar.
 19. The gaming apparatus of claim 18, wherein the corner attachment mechanisms are elbow fittings.
 20. The gaming apparatus of claim 1, wherein the panel of flexible material includes sleeves or flaps that are configured to couple the panel of flexible material to the rigid perimeter.
 21. The gaming apparatus of claim 1, wherein the rigid perimeter includes two longitudinal perimeter rails extending in a first direction and two transverse perimeter rails which extend generally perpendicular to the respective longitudinal perimeter rails.
 22. The gaming apparatus of claim 21, wherein corner attachment mechanisms attach respective ends of the two longitudinal perimeter rails to respective ends of the two transverse perimeter rails.
 23. The gaming apparatus of claim 22, wherein the corner attachment mechanisms include elbow fittings.
 24. The gaming apparatus of claim 23, wherein the corner attachment mechanisms include respective tee fittings that are directly couple respective upper ends of the longitudinal perimeter rails to respective second transverse perimeter rails via couplings, wherein the tee fittings attach the rigid perimeter to respective leg extensions of the support member.
 25. The gaming apparatus of claim 21, wherein the panel of flexible material can includes sleeves having sleeve openings through which the longitudinal perimeter members are received, and the panel of flexible material includes flaps that are operable to enclose and couple the transverse perimeter rails to the panel of flexible material.
 26. The gaming apparatus of claim 25, wherein the flaps are adjustable flaps operable to adjust the tension of the panel of flexible material with respect to the rigid perimeter.
 27. The gaming apparatus of claim 26, wherein the flaps include a closure mechanism.
 28. The gaming apparatus of claim 27, wherein the closure mechanism includes at least one of a hook and loop fastener, buttons, rivets, clips, zippers, buckles, ties, snaps, or hooks.
 29. The gaming apparatus of claim 1, wherein the rigid perimeter and support member are formed of a material selected from the group consisting of plastic, wood, metal, metal alloys and composites thereof, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), steel, aluminum, polymeric composite, titanium, glass-hardened polymers, polymer or fiber reinforced metals, carbon fiber, glass fiber composites, chopped glass and carbon fibers, laminate glass, epoxy laminates, woven glass fiber laminates, impregnate fibers, polyester resins, epoxy resins, phenolic resins, polyimide resins, cyanate resins, high-strength plastics, nylon, polymer fiber reinforced plastics, thermoform and thermoset materials, and combinations thereof.
 30. The gaming apparatus of claim 1, wherein the panel of flexible material is formed from a material selected from the group consisting of fabric, plastic, vinyl, canvas, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), rubber, cotton, textile, polyester, polyester nylon, recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET), leather, spandex, polyurethane foam, nylon, denier and denier variations, elastic, vinyl coated polyester, silicon coated materials, elastomer composite, mesh, PVC backed polyester, neoprene fabric, neoprene fabric variations and combinations thereof.
 31. A kit for a gaming apparatus comprising a panel of flexible material, two longitudinal perimeter rails, two transverse perimeter rails, two tee fittings, six elbow fittings, two couplings, two leg extensions, and a leg crossbar.
 32. A kit for a gaming apparatus comprising two panels of flexible material, four longitudinal perimeter rails, four transverse perimeter rails, four tee fittings, twelve elbow fittings, four couplings, four leg extensions, and two leg crossbars.
 33. The kit of claim 32, further comprising two mats, a carrying case, and optionally one or more golf balls or golf ball sized wiffle balls. 